Showing posts with label ACC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ACC. Show all posts
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Creighton's Doug McDermott an Iowa Star
Creighton’s Doug McDermott is an All-American.
Yet there is a sense that because the junior plays in the Midwest and the Missouri Valley Conference that he doesn’t receive proper recognition. Put the guy in the Big Ten or ACC and college basketball fans all around the USA would know about McDermott.
Creighton has always been a basketball school but McDermott’s feats have provided the Jays with greater creditability.
Friday night, McDermott tossed in 39 points to lead his team to a road victory over Missouri State. Creighton is ranked 13th in the country with a 16-1 record. McDermott has been productive since his freshman year and is currently averaging 23.6 points per game.
The interesting thing is McDermott was the second best player on his high school team at Ames, Iowa. Harrison Barnes was the poster boy and received all the national attention. Barnes went to North Carolina and played two seasons before turning pro. I contend that McDermott is a better college player than Barnes.
There are still some fans in Iowa upset that McDermott left the state. He was scheduled to play for Northern Iowa but was granted his release when his father, Greg, took the Creighton job. Creighton and Northern Iowa are fierce rivals in the Missouri Valley. Greg McDermott was a former player and coach at Northern Iowa.
But regardless of where Doug McDermott plays, Iowans can celebrate the accomplishments of this All-American. The terms Iowan and All-American are a rare occurrence.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Big 12 Conference Should Step Up
Conference realignment is again a hot topic with the announcement of Maryland and Rutgers moving to the Big Ten.
I thought this conference realignment stuff was on hold for a time, but the Big Ten move shocked me. Now, the league will expand to 14 members and qualify for the “super” conference tag.
This action obviously has a ripple effect on other conferences and schools. The so called quiet time in collegiate athletics has become the nervous time again. What will happen to the Big East and ACC? Will more conferences raid their schools?
One conference that should take action is the Big 12. The league needs two more teams to return to the magic number of 12. This will enable the league to host a conference football championship again. The Big 12 is currently the only major conference without a championship game.
Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby stated this past summer that he was comfortable with the 10-team league, but the realignment game has changed again. Unfortunately, the game is either pick your new members or be in danger of having your members picked. The Big 12 needs to use the pick strategy.
I thought this conference realignment stuff was on hold for a time, but the Big Ten move shocked me. Now, the league will expand to 14 members and qualify for the “super” conference tag.
This action obviously has a ripple effect on other conferences and schools. The so called quiet time in collegiate athletics has become the nervous time again. What will happen to the Big East and ACC? Will more conferences raid their schools?
One conference that should take action is the Big 12. The league needs two more teams to return to the magic number of 12. This will enable the league to host a conference football championship again. The Big 12 is currently the only major conference without a championship game.
Big 12 Commissioner Bob Bowlsby stated this past summer that he was comfortable with the 10-team league, but the realignment game has changed again. Unfortunately, the game is either pick your new members or be in danger of having your members picked. The Big 12 needs to use the pick strategy.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
The Mighty Have Fallen
Place the Notre Dame Fighting Irish into the category of “Oh how the mighty have fallen.”
Notre Dame will join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in all sports except football and hockey. The Irish will escape a crippled Big East Conference. The news was announced Wednesday
On another news day, say 5-10 years ago, Notre Dame and conference realignment would pose big news. But not anymore. The Irish is just another college sports program.
Notre Dame lost its larger than life status already a number of years ago. It’s once mighty football program that won national championships is now mediocre at best. We all know that Notre Dame will probably never return to its glory days. Like most college sports programs, the Irish feed off their football program.
Putting it all in perspective, Notre Dame football and its athletic programs are yesterday’s news.
The Irish cut the best deal they could with the ACC. They will keep their football independence but be required to play several ACC opponents each season. I sense it will only become a matter of time however before Notre Dame becomes a full-fledged football member of the ACC.
Notre Dame and the ACC can spin it anyway in the press they wish, this marriage isn’t that special. If it was special, it would not be happening.
Notre Dame’s cookie is crumbling and the ACC is just picking up the crumbs.
Notre Dame will join the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in all sports except football and hockey. The Irish will escape a crippled Big East Conference. The news was announced Wednesday
On another news day, say 5-10 years ago, Notre Dame and conference realignment would pose big news. But not anymore. The Irish is just another college sports program.
Notre Dame lost its larger than life status already a number of years ago. It’s once mighty football program that won national championships is now mediocre at best. We all know that Notre Dame will probably never return to its glory days. Like most college sports programs, the Irish feed off their football program.
Putting it all in perspective, Notre Dame football and its athletic programs are yesterday’s news.
The Irish cut the best deal they could with the ACC. They will keep their football independence but be required to play several ACC opponents each season. I sense it will only become a matter of time however before Notre Dame becomes a full-fledged football member of the ACC.
Notre Dame and the ACC can spin it anyway in the press they wish, this marriage isn’t that special. If it was special, it would not be happening.
Notre Dame’s cookie is crumbling and the ACC is just picking up the crumbs.
Monday, July 30, 2012
Talking College Championship Football
Phil Steele’s college football magazine is loaded with lists. He starts off on page 3 predicting every major bowl game opponents and the national championship participants.
For the national championship game (drum roll, please), he matches Oklahoma against Florida State.
Some predicted the Sooners to be the national champions last season. But a few key injuries derailed that pursuit and Oklahoma finished a “disappointing” 10-3.
The Sooners are usually a safe pick for the championship, playing their most recent final game in 2008 losing to Florida 24-14. They return eight starters on offense and seven on defense. Oklahoma should contend but must outlast a rugged Big 12 Conference slate where all 10 teams play each other.
Florida State is an interesting pick. The Seminoles were a respectable 9-4 last season and return eight starters on the offense and nine on the defense this year. Florida State advantage is a favorable schedule and membership is the traditionally so-so Atlantic Coast Conference. Two of the three challenging games are at home against Clemson and Florida. The one possible real trap is at Virginia Tech. Coach Jimbo Fisher is trying to carve out his own niche at Florida State, but he has a long road to match former coach Bobby Bowden’s success.
I’m fine with Steele’s Oklahoma pick, but not warm-and-cuddily regarding Florida State. The Seminoles need to win some big games AND avoid the upsets. I don’t see that happening.
Who is your national championship game pick?
For the national championship game (drum roll, please), he matches Oklahoma against Florida State.
Some predicted the Sooners to be the national champions last season. But a few key injuries derailed that pursuit and Oklahoma finished a “disappointing” 10-3.
The Sooners are usually a safe pick for the championship, playing their most recent final game in 2008 losing to Florida 24-14. They return eight starters on offense and seven on defense. Oklahoma should contend but must outlast a rugged Big 12 Conference slate where all 10 teams play each other.
Florida State is an interesting pick. The Seminoles were a respectable 9-4 last season and return eight starters on the offense and nine on the defense this year. Florida State advantage is a favorable schedule and membership is the traditionally so-so Atlantic Coast Conference. Two of the three challenging games are at home against Clemson and Florida. The one possible real trap is at Virginia Tech. Coach Jimbo Fisher is trying to carve out his own niche at Florida State, but he has a long road to match former coach Bobby Bowden’s success.
I’m fine with Steele’s Oklahoma pick, but not warm-and-cuddily regarding Florida State. The Seminoles need to win some big games AND avoid the upsets. I don’t see that happening.
Who is your national championship game pick?
Friday, June 8, 2012
This Basketball Rivalry Heats Up
College basketball player Jared Uthoff’s transfer from Wisconsin to Iowa this week just added more spice in the border state’s rivalry.
Uthoff’s story became a national one when Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan placed major transferring restrictions on a guy that never played a minute for the Badgers. Originally, Ryan said Uthoff couldn’t transfer to any Big Ten or ACC school or places like Marquette or Iowa State. For all we know, Ryan could have added all universities in Iceland and Spain too to the “Don’t Even Think About It” list. But Ryan was viewed as Dr. Evil in the national media and eventually loosened his iron hand.
If Ryan thought Uthoff would eventually end up at Iowa, his hunch was correct. Now in a couple years, the former Iowa Mr. Basketball can suit up against old team and try to beat them.
Uthoff must really want to play for the Hawkeyes. Not only must he sit out the usual one year for transferring, but he will also pay for his own schooling the first year.
My question is why Uthoff didn’t select Iowa out of high school. If it was based upon former Iowa coach Todd Lickliter's win troubles and style of play, I say, “hello.” Yes, Ryan wins at Wisconsin but he plays that same dull controlled offense style Lickliter was using.
Uthoff better bring some earplugs the first time he plays in Madison. The friendly place could become unfriendly in a hurry.
Aren’t rivalries fun?
Uthoff’s story became a national one when Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan placed major transferring restrictions on a guy that never played a minute for the Badgers. Originally, Ryan said Uthoff couldn’t transfer to any Big Ten or ACC school or places like Marquette or Iowa State. For all we know, Ryan could have added all universities in Iceland and Spain too to the “Don’t Even Think About It” list. But Ryan was viewed as Dr. Evil in the national media and eventually loosened his iron hand.
If Ryan thought Uthoff would eventually end up at Iowa, his hunch was correct. Now in a couple years, the former Iowa Mr. Basketball can suit up against old team and try to beat them.
Uthoff must really want to play for the Hawkeyes. Not only must he sit out the usual one year for transferring, but he will also pay for his own schooling the first year.
My question is why Uthoff didn’t select Iowa out of high school. If it was based upon former Iowa coach Todd Lickliter's win troubles and style of play, I say, “hello.” Yes, Ryan wins at Wisconsin but he plays that same dull controlled offense style Lickliter was using.
Uthoff better bring some earplugs the first time he plays in Madison. The friendly place could become unfriendly in a hurry.
Aren’t rivalries fun?
Monday, May 21, 2012
Florida State and the Big 12 Conference
If we have learned one thing over the years about collegiate sports, it is this: forget about conference loyalty.
Last week, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) member Florida State made quite a stir. Is Florida State really satisfied in the ACC or does it have eyes for the Big 12 Conference?
This controversy all started when a Florida State Board of Trustee member said that he was unhappy with the ACC’s television contract. That sparked rumors of the Seminoles’ possible interest in the Big 12. Florida State officials denied any interest in moving to the league that features football powers Texas and Oklahoma.
So this rumor is either simply Internet-generated material or possible Florida State positioning. Could the Seminoles be playing this rumor to increase their power and possible revenue in the ACC? Or behind closed doors, is Florida State secretly interested in the Big 12 and hopes the affection is mutual.
Some say Florida State is upset with the ACC’s basketball focus. The Seminoles are mainly a football school and are working on getting back to national relevancy under coach Jimbo Fisher. But their men’s basketball program is quite competitive too. Just ask Duke and North Carolina.
So will this rumor die or continue to sprout? From the outside, I think Florida State is a good ACC fit. The Seminoles are geographically close to other conference members and they compete well athletically.
But really what do I know? I’m still trying to sort out why West Virginia decided to join the Big 12 Conference. I guess I just don’t understand geography.
Last week, Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) member Florida State made quite a stir. Is Florida State really satisfied in the ACC or does it have eyes for the Big 12 Conference?
This controversy all started when a Florida State Board of Trustee member said that he was unhappy with the ACC’s television contract. That sparked rumors of the Seminoles’ possible interest in the Big 12. Florida State officials denied any interest in moving to the league that features football powers Texas and Oklahoma.
So this rumor is either simply Internet-generated material or possible Florida State positioning. Could the Seminoles be playing this rumor to increase their power and possible revenue in the ACC? Or behind closed doors, is Florida State secretly interested in the Big 12 and hopes the affection is mutual.
Some say Florida State is upset with the ACC’s basketball focus. The Seminoles are mainly a football school and are working on getting back to national relevancy under coach Jimbo Fisher. But their men’s basketball program is quite competitive too. Just ask Duke and North Carolina.
So will this rumor die or continue to sprout? From the outside, I think Florida State is a good ACC fit. The Seminoles are geographically close to other conference members and they compete well athletically.
But really what do I know? I’m still trying to sort out why West Virginia decided to join the Big 12 Conference. I guess I just don’t understand geography.
Friday, April 20, 2012
Wisconsin Badgers do the Right Thing
The Wisconsin Badgers have officially released Jarod Uthoff from transfer prison.
This story developed when Uthoff wanted to transfer from Wisconsin after sitting out his freshman season as a redshirt. For my international readers, a redshirt can participate in team activities including practices but cannot play in actual games.
Usually a player and coach will say nice things about each other after the transfer decision is announced and the player will go on its merry way. But Uthoff’s case became a national story because Wisconsin coach Bob Ryan and the school put major restrictions on where Uthoff could transfer.
The NCAA allows schools to put restrictions on transfers, but most schools put only a small handful of teams on the list. Often, schools won’t allow a player to attend another conference school or one of their biggest rivals. But Wisconsin first said that Uthoff couldn’t go to the entire ACC, the Big Ten (where the Badgers are a member), Florida, Marquette and Iowa State.
Uthoff cried foul.
The former 2011 Iowa Mr. Basketball wanted at least the opportunity to consider a wide range of schools. Apparently, more than half of Uthoff’s options were on Wisconsin’s no-no list.
Uthoff appealed to Wisconsin officials and after a meeting Thursday, the Badgers will now allow him to transfer to any school but a Big Ten member. There is talk that Uthoff may appeal that ruling too so he can consider a Big Ten school.
Ryan and his program were taking considerable national heat over the restrictive behavior. If Ryan was trying to prove a point, it didn’t work. Apparently, he caved in to the pressure and probably for good reason. If you were a recruit, would you want to go to Wisconsin with the thought that if it wasn’t a good fit and you wanted to transfer that Ryan would put you in prison too?
It’s probably too late for Wisconsin to avoid short-term recruiting damage, but at least Uthoff can consider more flavors rather than just vanilla and chocolate.
This story developed when Uthoff wanted to transfer from Wisconsin after sitting out his freshman season as a redshirt. For my international readers, a redshirt can participate in team activities including practices but cannot play in actual games.
Usually a player and coach will say nice things about each other after the transfer decision is announced and the player will go on its merry way. But Uthoff’s case became a national story because Wisconsin coach Bob Ryan and the school put major restrictions on where Uthoff could transfer.
The NCAA allows schools to put restrictions on transfers, but most schools put only a small handful of teams on the list. Often, schools won’t allow a player to attend another conference school or one of their biggest rivals. But Wisconsin first said that Uthoff couldn’t go to the entire ACC, the Big Ten (where the Badgers are a member), Florida, Marquette and Iowa State.
Uthoff cried foul.
The former 2011 Iowa Mr. Basketball wanted at least the opportunity to consider a wide range of schools. Apparently, more than half of Uthoff’s options were on Wisconsin’s no-no list.
Uthoff appealed to Wisconsin officials and after a meeting Thursday, the Badgers will now allow him to transfer to any school but a Big Ten member. There is talk that Uthoff may appeal that ruling too so he can consider a Big Ten school.
Ryan and his program were taking considerable national heat over the restrictive behavior. If Ryan was trying to prove a point, it didn’t work. Apparently, he caved in to the pressure and probably for good reason. If you were a recruit, would you want to go to Wisconsin with the thought that if it wasn’t a good fit and you wanted to transfer that Ryan would put you in prison too?
It’s probably too late for Wisconsin to avoid short-term recruiting damage, but at least Uthoff can consider more flavors rather than just vanilla and chocolate.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Talking LSU and Alabama
nationIf you are a college football fan, you know folks have been looking forward to the LSU-Alabama contest for a few weeks.
LSU is No. 1 in the BCS standings while Alabama comes in at No. 2. The Tide has the home field advantage.
I look at this as an elimination game for the national championship. The loser would have to hope some other undefeated teams lose in the remaining weeks in order for a one-loss grouping. Then maybe the computers would look favorably on a one-loss SEC team.
Some believe a one-loss SEC team should be a national championship contender against undefeated teams. I don’t believe that way. A loss is a loss whether it comes in the SEC, ACC, Big Ten or Big 12.
Anyway, the stakes are high in this one. The winner should be the favorite for the national championship. Both schools have played that role in recent years and seceded in it.
Do you think the loser should get another shot at the national championship?
LSU is No. 1 in the BCS standings while Alabama comes in at No. 2. The Tide has the home field advantage.
I look at this as an elimination game for the national championship. The loser would have to hope some other undefeated teams lose in the remaining weeks in order for a one-loss grouping. Then maybe the computers would look favorably on a one-loss SEC team.
Some believe a one-loss SEC team should be a national championship contender against undefeated teams. I don’t believe that way. A loss is a loss whether it comes in the SEC, ACC, Big Ten or Big 12.
Anyway, the stakes are high in this one. The winner should be the favorite for the national championship. Both schools have played that role in recent years and seceded in it.
Do you think the loser should get another shot at the national championship?
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Listen to Texas' Mack Brown
Texas football coach Mack Brown said yesterday he wants to remain in the Big 12 Conference. He also said Texas wants to stay in the league.
If those statements are true, then the next step is simple. Texas needs to come out publicly and declare it will definitely stay in the Big 12.
Texas could place a huge roadblock on this realignment chaos with that simple statement. But can Texas be trusted? The Longhorns seem to enjoy flirting with suitors just like other schools.
Would Texas find happiness in the Pac-12 or ACC? How about as an independent? The Longhorns are viewed as a Big 12 bully. They have basically taken advantage of flavored status in the old Southwest Conference and the Big 12. In a way, you cannot blame them. But if you (Texas) drive away the competition, what do you have left? A king without subjects is not a kingdom.
I doubt whether the Pac-12 or the ACC is viewing Texas as the ultimate gold piece. If the Longhorns want to join one of those leagues, they will actually find themselves in a sharing position. They will no longer be the top dog in a conference.
I sense Texas is a lonely institution in these changeable times. The Longhorns want to become loved. The problem for Texas, if it joins another conference, is someone else will make the rules. And following is a whole different story than having followers.
If those statements are true, then the next step is simple. Texas needs to come out publicly and declare it will definitely stay in the Big 12.
Texas could place a huge roadblock on this realignment chaos with that simple statement. But can Texas be trusted? The Longhorns seem to enjoy flirting with suitors just like other schools.
Would Texas find happiness in the Pac-12 or ACC? How about as an independent? The Longhorns are viewed as a Big 12 bully. They have basically taken advantage of flavored status in the old Southwest Conference and the Big 12. In a way, you cannot blame them. But if you (Texas) drive away the competition, what do you have left? A king without subjects is not a kingdom.
I doubt whether the Pac-12 or the ACC is viewing Texas as the ultimate gold piece. If the Longhorns want to join one of those leagues, they will actually find themselves in a sharing position. They will no longer be the top dog in a conference.
I sense Texas is a lonely institution in these changeable times. The Longhorns want to become loved. The problem for Texas, if it joins another conference, is someone else will make the rules. And following is a whole different story than having followers.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Coach Speak
One of college coaches (and all coaches really) biggest jobs is playing the public relations role. It just goes with the job.
The college football season is less than a month away. Training camps have begun. Coaches are trying to tell their fans what the fans want to hear. Whether your team is projected to finish 10-2 or 2-10, have five-star players or one-star athletes, coaches are selling hope. But usually fans are perceptive about their particular team despite the coach’s comments.
There has been plenty of talk about Russell Wilson playing quarterback at the University of Wisconsin this fall. Wilson as I have noted before transferred from North Carolina State. Wilson was a three-year starter for the Wolfpack plus an all-ACC performer.
The Badgers held their media day Sunday in Madison. Coach Brent Bielema maintained again that Wilson must earn the starting job. That’s all fine and good, but it’s classic coach-speak. Every Badger fan from La Crosse to Milwaukee and beyond knows Wisconsin didn’t bring Wilson in to play second or third string Folks, it is the worst kept secret in the state of Wisconsin. Bielema is trying to motivate Wilson (Wilson is highly motivated on his own) and keep the morale high among the other quarterbacks. Barring injury, it will only become a matter of time before Wilson is officially named the starting quarterback.
Once that occurs, Bielema will focus on some other coach speak. It’s as normal as leaves changing colors in the fall.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Mark Turgeon and Maryland
Maryland found its new coach to lead the program and it didn’t take long. Former Texas A&M coach Mark Turgeon will be introduced today at a press conference.
Turgeon appears a solid hire. He led the Aggies to four straight NCAA tournament appearances and compiled a 97-40 record in Texas. In three coach stops, Turgeon is 249-158 overall.
He was rumored for several jobs this off season but he goes to a place that definitely breaths basketball and has membership in a historic conference—the ACC.
One could tell that Turgeon was not that happy at Texas A&M. He often talked about the lack of Aggie fan support. Turgeon probably thought basketball played second fiddle at the school. Football like most places in Texas is king.
But Turgeon won’t deal with the basketball lack of respect at Maryland. Its football program is struggling and with a national championship in hoops, Turgeon will have plenty of fan support.
Turgeon will face challenges. Any coach that battles Duke and North Carolina on a regular basis knows what challenging competition is. But I imagine that is one aspect that appealed to Turgeon in this job. He is a basketball guy and he will need to prove it now against some of the nation’s best.
Turgeon appears a solid hire. He led the Aggies to four straight NCAA tournament appearances and compiled a 97-40 record in Texas. In three coach stops, Turgeon is 249-158 overall.
He was rumored for several jobs this off season but he goes to a place that definitely breaths basketball and has membership in a historic conference—the ACC.
One could tell that Turgeon was not that happy at Texas A&M. He often talked about the lack of Aggie fan support. Turgeon probably thought basketball played second fiddle at the school. Football like most places in Texas is king.
But Turgeon won’t deal with the basketball lack of respect at Maryland. Its football program is struggling and with a national championship in hoops, Turgeon will have plenty of fan support.
Turgeon will face challenges. Any coach that battles Duke and North Carolina on a regular basis knows what challenging competition is. But I imagine that is one aspect that appealed to Turgeon in this job. He is a basketball guy and he will need to prove it now against some of the nation’s best.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Gary Williams Has Strong Run
Maryland basketball Coach Gary Williams retired late last week to the surprise of some.
But the guy earned the right to quit on his own terms. Williams served as a head coach for 33 years including the last 22 at alma mater Maryland.
He left his mark with the Terps. He led them to a 460-248 over record including the 2002 National Championship. Williams’ teams were a consistent visitor to the NCAA tournament and would occasionally defeat Duke and North Carolina in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Williams’ fire on the sidelines will be missed. The guy worked extremely hard on game day. He was consistently “chewing” out his players and frequently the guys in the stripe shirts. A Gary Williams team was never dull.
Williams could also be controversial. The latest incident was when former Maryland Athletic Director Deb Yow charged that he sabotage Yow’s present school’s (NC State)
basketball job search. It’s safe to assume that the two didn’t get along too well when they worked together at College Park.
Williams won’t go too far as he will now assist the athletic department. The new guy in the Maryland basketball chair will face challenges. He will replace a legend and the Williams will have a nearby seat to chart the progress of the national caliber-team he built.
But the guy earned the right to quit on his own terms. Williams served as a head coach for 33 years including the last 22 at alma mater Maryland.
He left his mark with the Terps. He led them to a 460-248 over record including the 2002 National Championship. Williams’ teams were a consistent visitor to the NCAA tournament and would occasionally defeat Duke and North Carolina in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Williams’ fire on the sidelines will be missed. The guy worked extremely hard on game day. He was consistently “chewing” out his players and frequently the guys in the stripe shirts. A Gary Williams team was never dull.
Williams could also be controversial. The latest incident was when former Maryland Athletic Director Deb Yow charged that he sabotage Yow’s present school’s (NC State)
basketball job search. It’s safe to assume that the two didn’t get along too well when they worked together at College Park.
Williams won’t go too far as he will now assist the athletic department. The new guy in the Maryland basketball chair will face challenges. He will replace a legend and the Williams will have a nearby seat to chart the progress of the national caliber-team he built.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
More Russell Wilson
Yesterday I wrote about the divorce between quarterback Russell Wilson and North Carolina State. The Pack has officially released Wilson from his scholarship.
But this isn’t the end of the story.
Wilson wants to play more football and other schools are obviously interested. He can perform at a school right away because he has graduated from NC State. He can attend graduation school and play for one more season.
Wilson’s release does prohibit him from playing for another ACC school or teams on the 2011 NC State schedule.
Media reports state that SEC schools are interested. Apparently, Auburn and South Carolina are looking for quarterbacks. Can you imagine Wilson is this top-notch conference?
Wilson is the real deal. The guy can simply make plays. With Wilson at the controls, a team always has a chance. Not only is he an outstanding football player, but Wilson will represent a university well off the field too.
It will look really strange next season when he probably wears No. 16 at another school and not lead the Pack anymore.
Change is constant in life, but this one shouldn’t happen
But this isn’t the end of the story.
Wilson wants to play more football and other schools are obviously interested. He can perform at a school right away because he has graduated from NC State. He can attend graduation school and play for one more season.
Wilson’s release does prohibit him from playing for another ACC school or teams on the 2011 NC State schedule.
Media reports state that SEC schools are interested. Apparently, Auburn and South Carolina are looking for quarterbacks. Can you imagine Wilson is this top-notch conference?
Wilson is the real deal. The guy can simply make plays. With Wilson at the controls, a team always has a chance. Not only is he an outstanding football player, but Wilson will represent a university well off the field too.
It will look really strange next season when he probably wears No. 16 at another school and not lead the Pack anymore.
Change is constant in life, but this one shouldn’t happen
Monday, April 25, 2011
Jim Larranaga Moves South
The off-season coaching moves continue to surprise me.
In yet another “we need to hire somebody” move, Miami tabbed former George Mason head guy Jim Larranaga as its new coach.
Apparently, people weren’t lining up (like other jobs this cycle) to lead the Hurricanes. Some people reportedly were hoping for Kansas State’s Frank Martin, but for whatever reason that didn’t happen.
Larranaga is a safe hire. He offered rock star status at one point in his career, but now at 61 he is probably at his final stop.
The guy had major success at mid-major George Mason. He led the school to a Final Four appearance in 2006 and five overall NCAA tournaments. He was in Virginia for 14 seasons and complied a 273-164 mark. He is 470-334 in his college career.
But this new job is far from the George Mason gig. Miami has a reputation of being cheap with its basketball program. Larranaga will need to win against program apathy. And then there is this small matter (I’m kidding for my foreign readers) of playing in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). For example, Duke and North Carolina will present problems unlike anything Larranaga faced in the mid-major circuit.
But this is a good move for Larranaga. He accomplished about all there is at George Mason. He comes to Miami with little expectation and little fanfare. And if it doesn’t work out, he can retire to his fishing boat or some other recreational activity.
In yet another “we need to hire somebody” move, Miami tabbed former George Mason head guy Jim Larranaga as its new coach.
Apparently, people weren’t lining up (like other jobs this cycle) to lead the Hurricanes. Some people reportedly were hoping for Kansas State’s Frank Martin, but for whatever reason that didn’t happen.
Larranaga is a safe hire. He offered rock star status at one point in his career, but now at 61 he is probably at his final stop.
The guy had major success at mid-major George Mason. He led the school to a Final Four appearance in 2006 and five overall NCAA tournaments. He was in Virginia for 14 seasons and complied a 273-164 mark. He is 470-334 in his college career.
But this new job is far from the George Mason gig. Miami has a reputation of being cheap with its basketball program. Larranaga will need to win against program apathy. And then there is this small matter (I’m kidding for my foreign readers) of playing in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). For example, Duke and North Carolina will present problems unlike anything Larranaga faced in the mid-major circuit.
But this is a good move for Larranaga. He accomplished about all there is at George Mason. He comes to Miami with little expectation and little fanfare. And if it doesn’t work out, he can retire to his fishing boat or some other recreational activity.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Sidney Lowe Done at North Carolina State
As I predicted a couple weeks ago in this space, Sidney Lowe is no longer the basketball coach at North Carolina State. The former Wolfpack guard resigned Tuesday.
Lowe, who was a member of Jim Valvano’s national championship team, couldn’t build the team into a national presence again. He posted a below .500 mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and never led NC State to a NCAA tournament appearance in five seasons.
Lowe seemed like a good recruiter, but a poor game coach. His teams didn’t possess good chemistry on floor and lacked passion. Ultimately, that falls back on the coach.
One writer said a problem with Lowe was he didn’t have college coaching experience. He did coach two NBA teams, but this writer noted that wasn’t the same.
Some people think the NC State job is a difficult one with Duke and North Carolina down the road only about 30 miles. But I think in their hearts, Wolfpack fans believe their school can field a winning, national team again. NC State has the tradition (remember David Thompson), it just needs to bring it to the present.
Last year, NC State hired Deb Yow as its new athletic director. She’s noted as a mover-and-shaker in the business. I sense she will comb the college basketball world in search of a successful and good fit coach for NC State.
The Pack should return to the NCAA tournament consistently. Yow needs to make it happen.
Lowe, who was a member of Jim Valvano’s national championship team, couldn’t build the team into a national presence again. He posted a below .500 mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and never led NC State to a NCAA tournament appearance in five seasons.
Lowe seemed like a good recruiter, but a poor game coach. His teams didn’t possess good chemistry on floor and lacked passion. Ultimately, that falls back on the coach.
One writer said a problem with Lowe was he didn’t have college coaching experience. He did coach two NBA teams, but this writer noted that wasn’t the same.
Some people think the NC State job is a difficult one with Duke and North Carolina down the road only about 30 miles. But I think in their hearts, Wolfpack fans believe their school can field a winning, national team again. NC State has the tradition (remember David Thompson), it just needs to bring it to the present.
Last year, NC State hired Deb Yow as its new athletic director. She’s noted as a mover-and-shaker in the business. I sense she will comb the college basketball world in search of a successful and good fit coach for NC State.
The Pack should return to the NCAA tournament consistently. Yow needs to make it happen.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Tony Bennett the Basketball Coach
There are two famous Tony Bennetts in the United States, but this is a piece about the less famous Bennett.
Most people have heard about the singer Tony Bennett. But there is also another Bennett laboring as head coach at the University of Virginia.
The basketball Bennett is having a tough season. In year two of his tenure at Virginia, Bennett’s team is just 12-12 and 3-7 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. In all fairness, Virginia lacks bodies (injuries) and talent. In the ACC, you need talent or you go to the bottom of the league. It’s basically Duke and North Carolina on a yearly basis. Oh sure, there are exceptions with the likes of Georgia Tech, Maryland etc. occasionally, but this is generally a two-team league.
Bennett is a good coach. He did it at Washington State. He is building a basketball family at Virginia. Bennett needs time and better players. He needs patience from the administration and fans. This obviously will not be a quick fix. Will he be able to compete in a Duke-North Carolina dominated league? We wait for that answer.
I am a huge Tony Bennett supporter. I met the guy when he was playing professional basketball in New Zealand. I was impressed with his genuineness and humility. Word has it he is the same guy today.
Bennett will not failure due to lack of effort or love and care for his players. The guy is a winner no matter what happens.
Most people have heard about the singer Tony Bennett. But there is also another Bennett laboring as head coach at the University of Virginia.
The basketball Bennett is having a tough season. In year two of his tenure at Virginia, Bennett’s team is just 12-12 and 3-7 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. In all fairness, Virginia lacks bodies (injuries) and talent. In the ACC, you need talent or you go to the bottom of the league. It’s basically Duke and North Carolina on a yearly basis. Oh sure, there are exceptions with the likes of Georgia Tech, Maryland etc. occasionally, but this is generally a two-team league.
Bennett is a good coach. He did it at Washington State. He is building a basketball family at Virginia. Bennett needs time and better players. He needs patience from the administration and fans. This obviously will not be a quick fix. Will he be able to compete in a Duke-North Carolina dominated league? We wait for that answer.
I am a huge Tony Bennett supporter. I met the guy when he was playing professional basketball in New Zealand. I was impressed with his genuineness and humility. Word has it he is the same guy today.
Bennett will not failure due to lack of effort or love and care for his players. The guy is a winner no matter what happens.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
North Carolina State's Sidney Lowe in Trouble
Sidney Lowe will probably not return as North Carolina State’s coach next season unless his team performs a miracle.
The Wolfpack could start tonight with a road win over Duke. That would shock the basketball world and the NC State faithful. I would say the chances are between zero and none
Frankly, there are little signs of life in this basketball team and the program under Lowe.
Lowe helped the Wolfpack to a national championship as a player, but as a coach he has never led a championship effort. Lowe’s team is a flat 12-10 this season and only 2-6 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Lowe’s overall mark is only 83-72 and a very poor 22-50 ACC mark. NC State has never gone to the NCAA tournament under Lowe. The Wolfpack has settled for two National Invitational Tournament (NIT) appearances.
Some experts said NC had a top-10 recruiting class last season. But the results on the floor are about the same. The players seem listless and the coach must take responsibility for it.
NC State was hoping for a Cinderella story, but unfortunately this isn’t working out. Lowe knows it. The fans know it. The administration must know it.
Wolfpack fans want to play for championships. They don’t want to play in the NIT.
The Wolfpack could start tonight with a road win over Duke. That would shock the basketball world and the NC State faithful. I would say the chances are between zero and none
Frankly, there are little signs of life in this basketball team and the program under Lowe.
Lowe helped the Wolfpack to a national championship as a player, but as a coach he has never led a championship effort. Lowe’s team is a flat 12-10 this season and only 2-6 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Lowe’s overall mark is only 83-72 and a very poor 22-50 ACC mark. NC State has never gone to the NCAA tournament under Lowe. The Wolfpack has settled for two National Invitational Tournament (NIT) appearances.
Some experts said NC had a top-10 recruiting class last season. But the results on the floor are about the same. The players seem listless and the coach must take responsibility for it.
NC State was hoping for a Cinderella story, but unfortunately this isn’t working out. Lowe knows it. The fans know it. The administration must know it.
Wolfpack fans want to play for championships. They don’t want to play in the NIT.
Friday, January 21, 2011
ACC is Down This Season
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is far from a mighty league this season.
I follow the ACC because of my interest in North Carolina State. Tuning into the Duke-NC State contest the other night, I was shocked to see the overall records of each conference team.
Yes, the ACC has a number of young players this year. But we aren’t that far removal from the first of the year in which many teams support glossy records despite the competition. Duke is the only team with a glossy record at 17-1.
Three traditional top-tier teams are really struggling. Maryland is just 11-7, while Georgia Tech is barely over .500 at 8-7. Wake Forest is 7-12.
Florida State and Boston College (each 14-5) lead a group of five teams with five overall losses. These two teams should make the NCAA tournament. Boston College’s Reggie Jackson (not the baseball player, ha) is a dynamite talent.
The ACC will need some serious marketing to receive more than four bids this year. The league should definitely sell its rich tradition. But right now, the only real selling point is the potential in the future years.
What do you think of the ACC?
I follow the ACC because of my interest in North Carolina State. Tuning into the Duke-NC State contest the other night, I was shocked to see the overall records of each conference team.
Yes, the ACC has a number of young players this year. But we aren’t that far removal from the first of the year in which many teams support glossy records despite the competition. Duke is the only team with a glossy record at 17-1.
Three traditional top-tier teams are really struggling. Maryland is just 11-7, while Georgia Tech is barely over .500 at 8-7. Wake Forest is 7-12.
Florida State and Boston College (each 14-5) lead a group of five teams with five overall losses. These two teams should make the NCAA tournament. Boston College’s Reggie Jackson (not the baseball player, ha) is a dynamite talent.
The ACC will need some serious marketing to receive more than four bids this year. The league should definitely sell its rich tradition. But right now, the only real selling point is the potential in the future years.
What do you think of the ACC?
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What's Up With the Big Ten?
The Big Ten has always been a different kind of league. Who else out there in conference land had 11 teams for a number of years and still called itself the Big Ten? And now with Nebraska joining the conference (to make 12) the Big Ten is still, well, the Big Ten. And still has a logo depicting the Big Ten
But Monday’s announcements were real head shakers.
One six-team division will now be called “Legends,” the other “Leaders.” I hope the conference didn’t pay some marketing firm $4 million for their expertise with that. Wow. What’s wrong with a directional name? I know. It’s too simply and yet complex because the schools are in all directions. But, really, how are fans going to remember what teams are in what divisions with Legends and Leaders?
Didn’t the Big Ten learn anything from the ACC. The ACC calls its divisions “Coastal” and “Atlantic” and I would be hard pressed to tell you the breakdown. But again, the Big Ten wants to be a different kind of league.
And what about the new logo?
I think the youth of America would call it “retro.” Simply stated, it’s old-fashioned. There is no mention of the 12 teams in the logo. At least, the old logo had a small reference to the 11 teams.
I wonder if there will become a fan outcry or if these changes will just become a fact of life in the Big Ten.
Remember when the soft drink old Coke™ became new Coke™. People didn’t like it so much that the company brought the old Coke™ back. In this case, the Big Ten seems stuck in the old without even asking the fans about the new.
But Monday’s announcements were real head shakers.
One six-team division will now be called “Legends,” the other “Leaders.” I hope the conference didn’t pay some marketing firm $4 million for their expertise with that. Wow. What’s wrong with a directional name? I know. It’s too simply and yet complex because the schools are in all directions. But, really, how are fans going to remember what teams are in what divisions with Legends and Leaders?
Didn’t the Big Ten learn anything from the ACC. The ACC calls its divisions “Coastal” and “Atlantic” and I would be hard pressed to tell you the breakdown. But again, the Big Ten wants to be a different kind of league.
And what about the new logo?
I think the youth of America would call it “retro.” Simply stated, it’s old-fashioned. There is no mention of the 12 teams in the logo. At least, the old logo had a small reference to the 11 teams.
I wonder if there will become a fan outcry or if these changes will just become a fact of life in the Big Ten.
Remember when the soft drink old Coke™ became new Coke™. People didn’t like it so much that the company brought the old Coke™ back. In this case, the Big Ten seems stuck in the old without even asking the fans about the new.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Wisconsin Rewind
I mentioned recently that I was in the great state of Wisconsin last week. Part of my time was spent in Madison—the home of the University of Wisconsin.
Madison is a buzz about the football team’s trip to the Rose Bowl. This was even before the Badgers knew their opponent. Merchants are cashing in too. I saw plenty of Rose Bowl apparel.
It was fun to visit a couple specialty Badger apparel stories. Everything red and white. I didn’t know they could put Bucky Badger’s likeness on so many things.
But my main sports focus of the week was attending the NC State-Wisconsin basketball game. I have been a Wolfpack fan for years due to connections at the ACC school. We sat in a section with Wolfpack fans transferred to the Midwest. So it was fun connecting with some new people.
The game: not so much. NC State lost by 39 points. It was over at halftime. The Wolfpack has a bunch of young, talented players. But as one coach once said, “The best thing about freshman (players) is that they become sophomores.” Senior Tracy Smith is out with a knee injury. The Wolfpack needs his big body, experience and scoring. Until that happens, NC State will struggle.
I was dressed in my Wolfpack apparel. I think the Badger fans actually felt sorry for me after the game. But to top it off, a waiter at a restaurant saw my Wolfpack sweater and deadpanned “I’m sorry.”
But hopefully someday, the Wolfpack can return the favor to the Badgers. Then red, black and white will triumph over simply red and white.
Madison is a buzz about the football team’s trip to the Rose Bowl. This was even before the Badgers knew their opponent. Merchants are cashing in too. I saw plenty of Rose Bowl apparel.
It was fun to visit a couple specialty Badger apparel stories. Everything red and white. I didn’t know they could put Bucky Badger’s likeness on so many things.
But my main sports focus of the week was attending the NC State-Wisconsin basketball game. I have been a Wolfpack fan for years due to connections at the ACC school. We sat in a section with Wolfpack fans transferred to the Midwest. So it was fun connecting with some new people.
The game: not so much. NC State lost by 39 points. It was over at halftime. The Wolfpack has a bunch of young, talented players. But as one coach once said, “The best thing about freshman (players) is that they become sophomores.” Senior Tracy Smith is out with a knee injury. The Wolfpack needs his big body, experience and scoring. Until that happens, NC State will struggle.
I was dressed in my Wolfpack apparel. I think the Badger fans actually felt sorry for me after the game. But to top it off, a waiter at a restaurant saw my Wolfpack sweater and deadpanned “I’m sorry.”
But hopefully someday, the Wolfpack can return the favor to the Badgers. Then red, black and white will triumph over simply red and white.
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